Reigning champion Julia Goerges and 2017 US Open runner-up Madison Keys will be the next to join Chinese wildcard holder Wang Qiang in the 12-player singles field at WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai, announced the organizing committee on Oct 17.

Goerges broke into the world top 10 for the first time as a semifinalist for the 2018 St. Petersburg Ladies' Trophy. She went on to reach her first grand slam semifinal at the 2018 Wimbledon Championships and achieved a career-high singles ranking of #9.

The German tennis ace earned a spot in the Zhuhai line-up with 2,775 points, becoming the first reigning champion to participate two years in a row.

"I am really excited coming back to Zhuhai to defend my title, and I had great memories from last year to win my biggest career title. I just can't wait to be back, and I just remembered all the great support I got there," she said.

Julia Goerges

American rising star Madison Keys, currently world #18, had a fantastic performance this season, producing her best result at Roland-Garros Stadium as a semifinalist and edging into the US Open semi-finals for the second consecutive year.

Keys, who took part in the 1st WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai in 2015, is excited about returning after a three-year hiatus and is looking forward to reconnecting with Chinese fans.

This year's event is to be held at Hengqin International Tennis Court from Oct 30 to Nov 4, with tennis legend Stefanie Graf expected to be in attendance.

Madison Keys [File photos]